Carrot Raisin Salad - Steph’s Stove
Carrot Raisin Salad - Steph’s Stove is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 241 calories per serving. Recipe by Steph’s Stove by Stephanie Thomas on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 20 min
Cost: $3.85 total, $0.64 per serving
Ingredients
- 4.5 cups Carrots (finely shredded; use a salad shredder or box grater)
- 1 cup Crushed Pineapple (undrained, from an 8‑ounce can)
- 0.75 cup Golden Raisins (can use regular raisins or sultanas)
- 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (regular white sugar)
- 1.5 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise (any brand; can substitute Greek yogurt or vegan mayo)
Instructions
Shred the Carrots
Using the Salad Shooter, shred the carrots into fine, bite‑size pieces until you have about 4½ cups.
Time: PT5M
Add Pineapple
Measure 1 cup (8 oz) of undrained crushed pineapple and stir it into the shredded carrots.
Time: PT2M
Incorporate Raisins
Add ¾ cup of golden raisins, breaking up any clumps, and mix evenly.
Time: PT1M
Sweeten the Salad
Sprinkle ½ cup of granulated sugar over the mixture and stir until the sugar dissolves and no clumps remain.
Time: PT2M
Add Lemon Juice
Stir in 1½ tablespoons of lemon juice to brighten the flavor and keep the carrots from browning.
Time: PT1M
Mix in Mayonnaise
Add ½ cup of mayonnaise, mixing gently. If the salad looks too watery, add a little more mayo until the mixture coats the carrots without being soupy.
Time: PT3M
Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1½–2 hours to let the flavors meld and the carrots absorb the liquid.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 241
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Contains Eggs
Allergens: Eggs
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Carrots: pre‑shredded carrots
- Instead of Crushed Pineapple: fresh pineapple chunks, pineapple juice with fresh pineapple
- Instead of Golden Raisins: regular raisins, dried cranberries
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: honey, maple syrup (use less)
- Instead of Lemon Juice: lime juice, white wine vinegar (use less)
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, vegan mayonnaise
Equipment Needed
- Salad Shooter
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Spatula or Spoon
- Slotted Spoon (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Shred carrots to a fine, uniform size.
- Balance the amount of mayonnaise with the pineapple juice to avoid a watery salad.
- Allow the salad to chill for at least 1½ hours so flavors meld and carrots stay bright.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- A pinch of ground cinnamon adds a subtle warm note that pairs well with the sweet ingredients.
- For a tangier version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
Troubleshooting
Salad is too watery after chilling.
Drain excess liquid with a slotted spoon and add a little more mayonnaise to re‑coat the carrots.
Raisins remain hard and dry.
Soak the raisins in warm pineapple juice for 5 minutes before adding them to the salad.
Carrots turn brown.
Ensure the lemon juice is added and the salad is promptly refrigerated; the acidity prevents browning.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will change.
Room temperature: Keep chilled; do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The salad can be prepared up to a day ahead; keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- If you prefer a less soggy texture, add the mayonnaise just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Carrot Raisin Salad in American Easter celebrations?
Carrot Raisin Salad became popular in the United States as a bright, sweet side dish for spring holidays. Its combination of carrots, raisins, and pineapple reflects the tradition of serving colorful, sweet salads at Easter brunches and family gatherings.
What are the traditional regional variations of Carrot Raisin Salad in the United States?
In the Southern U.S., the salad often includes a touch of cinnamon and uses mayonnaise mixed with sour cream. In the Midwest, some cooks add chopped apples or replace the raisins with dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
How is Carrot Raisin Salad traditionally served in American Easter meals?
It is typically served chilled in a serving bowl alongside ham, deviled eggs, and other classic Easter dishes. The salad’s sweet‑tangy flavor balances savory mains and adds a pop of color to the table.
What occasions or celebrations is Carrot Raisin Salad traditionally associated with in American culture?
Besides Easter, the salad is a staple at spring potlucks, family picnics, and holiday brunches because it can be made ahead and stays fresh when chilled.
What makes Carrot Raisin Salad special or unique in American side‑dish cuisine?
Its blend of fresh shredded carrots, sweet pineapple juice, and creamy mayonnaise creates a sweet‑savory profile that is both refreshing and comforting, setting it apart from typical green salads.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Carrot Raisin Salad?
Common errors include over‑shredding carrots into large pieces, draining the pineapple juice (which helps keep the carrots bright), and adding too much mayonnaise, which can make the salad soggy.
Why does this Carrot Raisin Salad recipe use undrained crushed pineapple instead of drained pineapple?
The undrained pineapple adds acidity and extra sweetness, helping to keep the carrots vibrant and plump the raisins, while also contributing to the salad’s creamy texture.
Can I make Carrot Raisin Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, prepare the salad up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Before serving, give it a quick stir and drain any excess liquid if needed.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Carrot Raisin Salad is done?
The carrots should remain crisp and bright orange, the raisins should be plump, and the dressing should coat the ingredients lightly without pooling at the bottom.
What does the YouTube channel Steph’s Stove by Stephanie Thomas specialize in?
Steph’s Stove by Stephanie Thomas focuses on approachable, family‑friendly recipes for everyday meals and special occasions, often highlighting classic comfort foods with a personal, home‑cooking touch.
How does the YouTube channel Steph’s Stove by Stephanie Thomas’s approach to American comfort cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Stephanie emphasizes quick, budget‑friendly dishes using pantry staples and shares personal stories that connect the recipes to family traditions, creating a warm, relatable cooking experience unlike more production‑heavy channels.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
